STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- About 600 graduates from Wagner College were encouraged to embrace the unexpected after walking off campus for the final time at their commencement ceremony today.

"Do not be afraid to go into unchartered territories," said Muriel Siebert, the commencement speaker, who is known for working her way up Wall Street to become the first female member of the New York Stock Exchange. "Don't be afraid of rejection. Don't be afraid of something you tried to do. Just pick yourself up and try it again."

The mood was jovial on the Grymes Hill college's Sutter Oval despite the sweltering sun that beat down on the graduates donned in their black gowns and caps - some of which had been decorated and studded with jewels.

Students cheered each other on as they were called to the stage and hats were flipped high into the air. Though it was a proud moment for all, it was a difficult day too.

"It's kind of bittersweet," said Alyssa Kennedy, 22, of Long Island, who studied business and was hoping to get her masters in marketing. "It's exciting but upsetting at the same time. I really enjoyed the relationships and the social aspect of Wagner."